Lupus Quiz

Take the Lupus Quiz

Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that affects the whole body. It is also called systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE. It can range from mild to severe. The Lupus Foundation of America says that as many as 1.5 million Americans have lupus. Most of them are women. Find out more about this disease by taking the following quiz.

1. Which part of the body might be affected by lupus?

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Lupus can also affect the lungs, eyes, gastrointestinal system, blood vessels, and blood.

A. JointsB. SkinC. KidneysD. HeartE. BrainF. All of the above

2. What happens to the immune system of a person who has lupus?

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A normal immune system makes antibodies against viruses, bacteria, and other invaders. In a person with lupus, the immune system makes autoantibodies. These are antibodies that attack the person's healthy cells. Autoantibodies cause inflammation and can harm organs and tissues.

A. The immune system makes antibodies against the body's cellsB. The immune system doesn’t make enough antibodies to fight off illnessC. The immune system doesn’t make any antibodiesD. None of the above

3. Besides SLE, which of these is another form of lupus?

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Discoid lupus erythematosus is a form of lupus that affects only the skin. It causes a raised rash on the face and scalp. The rash areas may become thick and scarred. The rash may last only days, or remain for years. Certain medicines may cause symptoms similar to SLE, but the symptoms usually go away when you stop taking the medicine. Neonatal lupus is a rare form of lupus. It affects newborn infants whose mothers may have SLE or another immune system disorder.

Lupus is much more common among women than among men. African-American women are 3 times more likely to have lupus than are Caucasian women. Lupus is also more common among women who are Asians, Hispanics, or of certain American Indian background.

5. Although the exact cause of lupus isn't yet known, which of these are believed to be factors?

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Researchers say a combination of factors may cause lupus. The cause may also be different from person to person. No specific gene has been found that causes lupus, but several genes may make it more likely that a person will develop it. SLE is most common in women who are in their childbearing years. This is when they have the highest levels of estrogen in their body. Other factors that are being explored include sunlight, stress, medications, and viruses.

A. An inherited geneB. Exposure to ultraviolet lightC. EstrogenD. All of the above

6. Which of these is a common symptom of systemic lupus?

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All of these are common symptoms of systemic lupus, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. The rash usually appears in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun. The rash spreads across the nose and cheeks.

Kidney inflammation (nephritis) can interfere with how the kidneys work. Other complications include an inflammation of the chest cavity (pleuritis); pneumonia; stroke; memory problems; blood vessel inflammation; and an inflammation of the heart (myocarditis).

Lupus is difficult to diagnose. An accurate medical history is important, because it can point out symptoms. A skin biopsy and blood antibody tests can help in the diagnosis.

A. With a CT scanB. With a urine testC. With a skin testD. None of the above

9. How is lupus treated?

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Lupus has no cure. But medicines can help most people with the disease can lead active, healthy lives. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to help control pain, swelling, and fever. Other types of medication may also be used.

Typical warning signs of a flare include fatigue, pain, rash, fever, headache, or dizziness that gets worse. By getting regular checkups, you can discuss any changes in symptoms with your health care provider. He or she may need to adjust your treatment. Your provider can also answer questions you may have about using sunscreens, reducing stress, and developing a program of exercise and rest.

A. Know the warning signs of a flare in symptomsB. Get a regular medical checkupC. Talk with your health care providerD. All of the above